Dr. Juice

Finding a good juice bar is a bit unexpected in La Jolla Village, but thoroughly cool. The little shop has a good feel, as though it's been tested over time and always passed. The interior feels nice and worn in, but not in a way that indicates decay.

"Patina" is the best word that comes to mind. Decorative, plastic fruits and veggies (in addition to plenty of the real thing) promise a prismatic spread of different smoothies and juices. Good juice spots are few and far between, so keeping Dr. Juice on the radar should be a priority for everyone who indulges in the occasional cleansing juice or shot of wheatgrass.

For $2.75, the small size juice lives up to its name and is gone in a few sips. $4.50 gets a medium, which is the right size for most people, and $5 buys a large for the deepest thirst.

Straight juices are sold in lots of combinations, most of which include fruits and vegetables. There's lots of apple, carrot, ginger, and greens in the various mixes; all of which can create delicious and fortifying blends. Everything is freshly juiced to order, which is a must for any good juice spot.

Smoothies come in just as many varieties as juices and cost the same.

Dr. Juice doesn't stray far from what the name implies, and the vast majority of the offerings are drinks. Still, a few sandwiches and bagels can be had, as well as a seemingly out of place freezer that has some ice cream bars for sale. Some packaged snacks on the counter round out the options and provide something to sink the teeth into if simply sipping on a juice doesn't quite get the job done.

Open 7 days a week from 11-6, Dr. Juice is located at 8008 Girard Avenue in La Jolla.